Lighten Blend Mode
Lighten is a blending mode that compares pixel values and keeps whichever is lighter between two layers.
Lighten is a blending mode that compares pixel values and keeps whichever is lighter between two layers.
Feb 2, 2026
Feb 2, 2026
Definition
Lighten mode evaluates each pixel from the active layer and the layer beneath it, displaying only the lighter of the two values. This means darker pixels effectively disappear while brighter ones remain visible.
Behavior
Because the algorithm always favors brightness, this mode never darkens an image. Instead, it selectively removes shadows and darker tones while preserving highlights.
Creative Uses
Designers commonly use Lighten to remove dark backgrounds, combine light effects, or blend multiple exposures. It is particularly useful when compositing elements like sparks, reflections, or light streaks.
Practical Insight
Lighten is most effective when the top layer contains bright details against dark backgrounds.
Definition
Lighten mode evaluates each pixel from the active layer and the layer beneath it, displaying only the lighter of the two values. This means darker pixels effectively disappear while brighter ones remain visible.
Behavior
Because the algorithm always favors brightness, this mode never darkens an image. Instead, it selectively removes shadows and darker tones while preserving highlights.
Creative Uses
Designers commonly use Lighten to remove dark backgrounds, combine light effects, or blend multiple exposures. It is particularly useful when compositing elements like sparks, reflections, or light streaks.
Practical Insight
Lighten is most effective when the top layer contains bright details against dark backgrounds.
Definition
Lighten mode evaluates each pixel from the active layer and the layer beneath it, displaying only the lighter of the two values. This means darker pixels effectively disappear while brighter ones remain visible.
Behavior
Because the algorithm always favors brightness, this mode never darkens an image. Instead, it selectively removes shadows and darker tones while preserving highlights.
Creative Uses
Designers commonly use Lighten to remove dark backgrounds, combine light effects, or blend multiple exposures. It is particularly useful when compositing elements like sparks, reflections, or light streaks.
Practical Insight
Lighten is most effective when the top layer contains bright details against dark backgrounds.
Lighten mode reveals only the brightest pixels, making it ideal for combining highlights.
Creative Pass keeps everything you need right in your pocket—ready when creativity strikes.
Creative Pass keeps everything you need right in your pocket—ready when creativity strikes.
Creative Pass keeps everything you need right in your pocket—ready when creativity strikes.